I've had the corkage added to my account then the next day found I had been also slugged 18% service charge on my $40 (2 bottles).
A sticker was attached to each of my bottles to indicate I had paid.
Repair busted suitcases and or locks would be one. Repair electrical/electronic gadgets we all seem to need. Fix or adjust bicycles, scooters, and mobility aids. There would be more but these just quickly came to mind.
Having cruised on six different HAL ships I have never come across chogs in Lido.
I almost always eat in breakfast and lunch in the Lido and never had a problem of not finding somewhere to sit. I am patient and look around for people about to leave. I also ask if people don't mind sharing say, a four top with only two sitting at it. I agree it could be frustrating for some who have experienced not being able to find a spot. I also believe it is rude and ignorant of people to occupy tables at peak dining times if they are not dining.
Mentioned in OP "on a low budget".
I have never use the pay-up reastaurants as I am happy enough with the MDR or Lido food. I don't see the point of paying OTT for food that I can get as good as and cheaper that I can have at local restaurants at home.
BTW The "Dive In" on Lido deck is great for burgers and dogs. Can be made to order.
Thanks. I had to ask aunty Google for that one as there were no touristy features to be found. Was having no luck for a while but nailed it by zooming in on the tall, odd shaped, building on the far right of the pic.
Looking now. Back in a jiff.
The Crows Nest was my #1 go to. Relaxed, quiet, bar and barista service, close to library. #2 would be pre dinner drinks in the Ocean bar where there was, live, light musical entertainment.
I have found the trivia on HAL lots of fun and less competitive than it used to be as there are no "prizes". The trivia hosts were very entertaining (moonlighting comedians?) and we marked our own answer sheets - honesty system. I used to like music trivias but on my last couple HAL cruises I floundered, the questions have been updated - I'm still stuck in the 60s and 70s.
I had a leatherman in my checked bag boarding, either Celebrity Infinity or Millie, and it was detected. I had to go to the naughty room and open my bag. My leatherman was confiscated and returned to me at the end of the cruise. I no longer take it on cruises.